In some quarters the reaction to Wales’ last Summer International has been quite spectacular. Injuries to key personnel in Leigh Halfpenny and Rhys Webb have led many observers to question the wisdom of risking front line players so close to the tournament.
The performance also provoked questions on the commitment of the players. Were they trying to “protect” themselves, knowing an injury so close to the tournament would endanger their participation in the showpiece event? Conclusions were drawn that this was a game too far, the victory against Ireland could have been a fitting way to complete preparations.
It’s not easy to conclude which of the two injuries are more worrisome for Wales chances in September. Rhys Webb, Welsh Rugby Writer’s Player of the Year established himself as first choice 9 in Warren Gatland’s squad after convincing performances last Autumn. When on song he is a livewire with quick service, so important in ensuring Wales can use their powerful runners behind the scrum.
Wales are fortunate that they have a number of decent scrum halves available for selection. They have called on two time British & Irish Lion Mike Phillips, who may not go straight into the team for the bigger games, but whose experience should prove invaluable.
As for the Halfpenny injury, the repercussions could be even greater. When he first started playing, he was smaller and appeared quicker. He certainly made a name for himself as an exciting winger who could finish tries with some finesse. He later settled in to his role at full-back, and due to the style favoured by Gatland, became less well known as an attacking player, for Wales, and more for his defensive capabilities, and great ability under the high ball. Of course, one of his greatest assets to the side he played for was his metronomic kicking.
The question of Liam Williams’ fitness, the man most likely to wear the number 15 jersey now , adds further worry to the effect Halfpenny’s absence will have on the side. Although he is far more willing to show his attacking ability, even under a regime that seems to value the attacking role of a fullback less than other sides, it’s entirely possible it will be difficult for him to settle straight into his position with any great effectiveness.
Added to that, Dan Biggar who is no slouch to a kicking role himself, hasn’t had to regularly deal with the responsibility of goal kicking for Wales. Will that responsibility affect his overall game to any great degree? Only time will tell on that score, although it seems evident that that for many, the little hope that existed in doing well in this tournament has now been all but lost.
It’s undoubtedly awful for both Webb and Halfpenny that injury has struck so close to the tournament kick-off. And it’s a huge worry for Wales that two such vital cogs in the wheel can no longer contribute.
In Shane Williams’ regular newspaper column on the weekend, he pointed out that the biggest effect injuries like these could have on any team is psychological. Will the players be able to lift themselves now, two such popular and well-respected colleagues won’t be available?
The spirit of the group has to really kick in now, and the motivational abilities of the coaching team will be tested to the limit. Wales were already on to a huge task having to face England, Fiji and Australia, but the “underdog” tag has suddenly grown a little bigger.
But this is where Wales seem to do so well. Just take a look back at last season’s Six Nations. On the first Friday night England rolled into Cardiff with what was described as a weakened side, due to injuries. In the build up, Wales were touted as favourites for many. The result, as they say is history.
Chastened, they re-grouped to face Ireland 3 games later. Ireland, who were already being talked about as one of the favourites for this World Cup, came to Cardiff themselves, on a seemingly unstoppable run to a Grand Slam. Under the radar, Wales came away with a victory to silence a lot of the doubters.
It’s this spirit that I believe may well be engendered even more now. That “backs to the wall” mentality that seems to work so well for them. At the moment, everything seems to be up in the air. Will Williams be fit in time for England? If not, is there a player capable of filling his shoes? Can Biggar shoulder the responsibility of playmaker and kicker on the biggest stage?
These are all questions that can only be answered when the action starts. Test Rugby can be cruel indeed. By the middle of October we’ll see whether or not last Saturday was catastrophic, or whether this side has the ability to turn all of this on it’s head.
*Everyone at LWOS would like to wish Lee Halfpenny and Rhys Webb a speedy recovery.
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